Nectar

The Buzz: All-day dining lounge located at the recently opened Wangz Hotel. Its location outside the CBD (it’s just around the corner from The Link Hotel in Tiong Bahru) offers a respite from the midday heat and lunchtime crowds.

The Vibe: Everything about this place says “hot new upstart”—from its shiny grey exterior to its designer fittings and art collection (valued at $400,000). Given its cool, clinical atmosphere, you almost expect the waitresses to jab you with a needle.

The Food: Predominantly European with a smattering of Asian fare thrown in. Chef de cuisine Jeffrey Cheong has done time at places such as the Mandarin Oriental Singapore, the Tower Club and the now-defunct Barfly Restaurant at Buddha Bar, and it shows in competently executed dishes such as the mushroom cappuccino; warm seafood salad; and sirloin of angus beef fillet in Madeira sauce. It also offers a three-course set lunch, is pretty good value for money given the caliber of the cooking.

The Drinks: If you’re around the area in the evening and looking for a spot to chill, head inside to the hotel and take a lift up to the seventh floor to Halo, its rooftop bar. Apart from various draught beers and wines, it also has seven signature cocktails, which run the gamut from fruit-based concoctions to espresso-infused ones. Another reason to come here: The views of the financial district are scenic enough to rival those of other rooftop bars in town.

Nectar has changed its menu since this write-up. We're scheduling to check them out soon.